Distance from Hakuba: 90 min
Jigokudani, also known as The Valley of Hell, is home to the world’s only troupe of monkeys known to bathe in naturally occurring hot springs. Visiting these famous monkeys as they relax in the soothing waters is a truly captivating and heartwarming wildlife experience.
For a more tranquil experience, unwind in one of Hakuba’s many natural hot springs, known as onsen. The healing properties of the mineral-rich waters combined with the serene surroundings offer the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after an exhilarating day on the slopes. These are our favorite onsen in Hakuba:
Kurashita Onsen is one of the most mineralized onsen in the Hakuba Valley and features a distinctive milky-hued water. Positioned just after crossing the bridge en route from Happo Village to Iwatake, this traditional gem offers splendid slope views. Visitors should bring their own bath towels..
Perhaps the best onsen view in all of Hakuba, Hakuba Highland Onsen is located within the Highland Hotel, perched at the base of the valley opposite the resorts. Bathers have spectacular unimpeded views of Happo-One and Hakuba47. The facility features a sauna, indoor and outdoor baths, and a lounge area to enjoy after your soak.
Mimizuku Onsen is a favorite among Hakuba locals for its stunning views of Happo-One resort from both indoor and outdoor baths. Adjacent to Kengo Kuma’s Hakuba Land Station, this facility provides the perfect post-bath experience with the option to enjoy a Starbucks coffee
Distance from Hakuba: 60 min
This 8th-century Buddhist temple is among the most significant religious destinations in Japan and is said to be home to the first Buddhist icon ever brought to the island nation.
The annual Nozawa Fire Festival, held mid January, is a unique event where villagers construct a three-story wooden structure for a symbolic and fiery battle. The elder generation of the village fights to protect it, while the younger generation strives to burn it down, symbolizing the rite of passage into adulthood and concluding with a spectacular display of flames.
Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s twelve surviving original castles, is celebrated for its striking black exterior, earning it the nickname “The Crow’s Castle.” This well-preserved 16th-century structure holds the prestigious designation of a Japanese National Treasure, serving as a testament to Japan’s rich history and distinctive architectural legacy.
Comprising five Shinto shrines interconnected by paths and hiking trails and lined with centuries-old cedar trees, this sacred site beautifully embodies the harmonious blend of nature and spirituality in Japanese culture.
Nagano City is 45 kilometers from Hakuba and the perfect half-day or full-day getaway. The city is rich in culture and cuisine and is easily accessible by both car and bus.
Hakubounce is the quintessential rainy day activity in Hakuba, where kids and adults alike can jump and laugh at Hakuba’s premiere indoor attraction. There is also a complimentary kids‘ corner available for children under three years of age.
World class architect, Kengo Kuma, successfully translated his vision of creating a social space that “connects people to nature and people with each other” when he designed Hakuba Land Station, a facility featuring a Snow Peak retail and experience center, Starbucks, and restaurant.
The globally acclaimed artist, Yayoi Kusama, is a Matsumoto native and her hometown museum proudly houses a permanent collection of her artistic masterpieces. Unlike her exhibits in New York, London, and Tokyo, the Yayoi Kusama exhibit in Matsumoto offers easy accessibility without the need for advance reservations.
